- Must visit
The Harris
Major city museum and library in a landmark building, known for art, history and regular exhibitions in the Harris Quarter.
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Compare prices and tickets St Helens to Preston by train
Compare train prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Why should you book St Helens to Preston trains with Omio?
Northern Rail as well as Transpennine Express, TransPennine Express, Northern Trains Limited and more offer trains services from St Helens to Preston.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from St Helens to Preston.
Why book with Omio vs Northern Rail?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Northern Rail, but also compare tickets for the likes of Transpennine Express, TransPennine Express or Northern Trains Limited to find the best option for your trip from St Helens to Preston.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
Why book with Omio over Trip or Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Transpennine Express, TransPennine Express or Northern Trains Limited to find the best option for your trip from St Helens to Preston.
Journey information
Overview: Train from St Helens to Preston
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from St Helens to Preston run on average 6 times per day, taking around 34m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £7 if you book in advance.
There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:27, the last at 23:44. The fastest train covers the 35 km distance in 27m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance 35 km |
Average train duration 34m |
Cheapest ticket price £7 |
Trains per day 6 |
Direct trains 4 |
Fastest train 27m |
First train 0:27 |
Last train 23:44 |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 3 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Train companies: Northern Rail, Transpennine Express, TransPennine Express, Northern Trains Limited from St Helens to Preston trainsNorthern Rail, Transpennine Express, TransPennine Express, Northern Trains Limited trains will get you between St Helens and Preston from £7. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Northern Rail
About
Northern Trains is a publicly owned train operating company in the United Kingdom, headquartered in York. It runs local and commuter services across the north of England, connecting regions including the North East, North West, East Midlands, Staffordshire, Yorkshire, and the Humber coastline. As part of the National Rail network, Northern operates under a coordinated fare and ticketing system alongside other UK train companies.Ticket types include Advance, Off-Peak, Anytime Day, single, return, and season tickets, with only one class option available: Standard. Onboard amenities may include comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and refreshments on select services. Popular routes include connections between major northern cities such as Manchester, Liverpool, and Leeds.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
35m
Cheapest Price
£7
Northern Rail frequency
5 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
See refund policy for ticket types
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most services with drinks and snacks. Some stations have cafes and shops
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available but not mandatory. Free of charge when booking advance tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone
Transpennine Express
About
Transpennine Express is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates services from Manchester and Liverpool to Scotland, the North East and Yorkshire. It offers a range of services, including express, regional and local trains. Express trains are the fastest, with journey times of up to three hours. Regional trains are slower, but offer more stops and a more relaxed atmosphere. Local trains are the slowest, but offer the most stops. Transpennine Express offers a range of ticket types, including single, return, group and season tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for Transpennine Express are Manchester to Edinburgh, Liverpool to Leeds and Manchester to York. These routes offer a convenient and comfortable way to travel between the cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
28m
Cheapest Price
£15
Transpennine Express frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 large items and 1 small hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if service is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks, plus a small selection of hot and cold food items
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are free of charge and recommended for busy routes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance booking service
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone
TransPennine Express
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
27m
Cheapest Price
£23
TransPennine Express frequency
2 a day
Northern Trains Limited
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
35m
Cheapest Price
£7
Northern Trains Limited frequency
22 a day
Complete guide to Preston
Things to do in Preston
Discover the best of Preston — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Preston trip today.
- Recommended
The Egypt Centre
Museum on the University of Central Lancashire campus with Egyptology, archaeology and world cultures collections in a compact gallery.
- Recommended
Ribble Steam Railway and Museum
Volunteer-run transport museum at Ribble Steam Railway, featuring Preston’s industrial and rail heritage with locomotives and exhibits.
- Must visit
Avenham Park
Historic city park with terraces, paths and river views. A favourite for walks, photography and access to nearby Miller Park.
- Recommended
Miller Park
Landscaped Victorian park beside the River Ribble, appreciated for open lawns, flower displays and peaceful links to city-centre walks.
- Recommended
Preston Docklands
Regenerated docklands area with marina views, public art and waterside paths, popular for an easy modern contrast to the historic centre.
- Vegetarian
Butter Pie
A buttery shortcrust pie filled with potatoes and onions. It is Preston and Lancashire’s best-known savoury bake, tied to local mill and farming traditions.
- Vegetarian
Simnel Cake
A rich fruit cake packed with currants and topped with almond paste. It is a classic Lancashire celebration cake still eaten across Preston.
- Gluten-free
Lancashire Cheese
A crumbly, mild white cheese from Lancashire often made in creamy, tasty and crumbly layers. It reflects the county’s long dairy heritage.
263 Restaurant
Stylish modern restaurant serving British and European plates with cocktails. Good for a polished dinner in central Preston.
Angelo's
Established local spot for Neapolitan-style pizza and Italian comfort food in a friendly, informal setting.
The Continental
Traditional city-centre pub known for cask ales and hearty British dishes in a historic, relaxed setting.
Pound sterling (£)
Preston is moderate by UK standards, with cheaper stays and dining than Manchester or London, while local buses, rail and casual meals remain manageable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is usual if service is not included. Round up taxi fares. Cafes do not expect tips, but small change is appreciated.
Preston Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £3.00
- Day pass
- £6.50
To the city centre
Preston Railway Station -> Preston Bus Station
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 13 min
- Most local buses in Preston support contactless Tap and Go; fares are capped at the Day Ticket price on participating Preston Bus services.
- Check the operator before boarding. Preston fares and app tickets may differ from other bus operators in the city.
FAQs: St Helens to Preston train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from St Helens to Preston by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Preston, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from St Helens to Preston can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £7, while the average price tends to be around £29.
The train journey from St Helens to Preston covers a distance of 35 km and takes approximately 27m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from St Helens to Preston is 35 km.
The first train from St Helens to Preston leaves at 0:27.
The last train from St Helens to Preston departs at 23:44.
Trains from St Helens to Preston run approximately 6 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from St Helens to Preston.
Yes, there is a direct train between St Helens and Preston. The service operates 4 times per day, provided by Northern Rail, Transpennine Express, TransPennine Express, Northern Trains Limited.
To travel from St Helens to Preston, you can take a train.
There is no night train service from St Helens to Preston.
The train station in St Helens that goes to Preston is St Helens Central (SNH), and it arrives at Preston station (PRE).
The cheapest way to get from St Helens to Preston is by train, costing approximately £7.
Booking trains from St Helens to Preston in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from St Helens to Preston offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, passing through picturesque countryside and quaint towns, providing a pleasant visual experience.
Yes, you can do a day trip from St Helens to Preston. The journey takes 27m, with a distance of 35 km. Trains run 6 times per day.
To fully explore Preston's key attractions, such as the Harris Museum, Avenham and Miller Parks, and the Ribble Steam Railway, a stay of two to three days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from St Helens to Preston.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in St Helens and Preston
Most St Helens to Preston trains use the St Helens Central to Preston station pair. Use this guide to compare St Helens and Preston train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in St Helens
Arrival train stations in Preston
Which St Helens station do trains to Preston leave from?
Trains from St Helens to Preston leave from St Helens Central. The station is 1 km from St Helens city centre at St Helens Central station, Shaw Street, St Helens, Merseyside, WA10 1DQ.
St Helens CentralSt Helens Central station, Shaw Street, St Helens, Merseyside, WA10 1DQ
City-centre transport
Getting to St Helens Central from St Helens city centre
Bus921 · 3m · every ~1 min
17, 153, 152 · 7m · £2 · every ~3 min
12 · 15m · every ~2 min
St Helens Central train station facilities and services
St Helens Central has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at St Helens Central.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at St Helens Central.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at St Helens Central: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at St Helens Central: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at St Helens Central: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A station, Scooter Friendly Station - Level access to Wigan bound platform. Access by underground subway to Liverpool platform with steep ramps. Lift open for all services, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: As per ticket office opening hours, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Thatto HeathThatto Heath station, Thatto Heath Road, St Helens, Merseyside, WA9 5PE
City-centre transport
Getting to Thatto Heath from St Helens city centre
Thatto Heath is 2 km from St Helens city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainBlackpool North - Liverpool Lime Street, Wigan North Western - Liverpool Lime Street, St Helens Central - Liverpool Lime Street · 3m · £0.90 · every ~4 min
Bus33, 10A, 920 · 9m · £2 · every ~31 min
289 · 11m · £2 · every ~2 min
Thatto Heath train station facilities and services
Thatto Heath has practical services for this route, including Parking, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office and Ticket Office.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Thatto Heath.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Thatto Heath: Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Thatto Heath: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category B station, This station only has tactile paving on platform 1 - Access to both platforms via road footbridge. Wigan bound platform accessed via long slope. Liverpool bound platform accessed via a graded slope with rest landings, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
St Helens JunctionSt Helens Junction station, Station Road, St Helens, Merseyside, WA9 3LA+44 800 200 6060
City-centre transport
Getting to St Helens Junction from St Helens city centre
St Helens Junction is 3 km from St Helens city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus35 · 16m · £2 · every ~5 min
C40 · 18m
774 · 20m · £4
39 · 26m · every ~2 min
St Helens Junction train station facilities and services
St Helens Junction has practical services for this route, including Parking, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office and Bike Parking.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at St Helens Junction.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at St Helens Junction: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at St Helens Junction: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at St Helens Junction: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category B station, Level access to the Manchester platform including tactile guidance path from main street, car park and bus interchange. Alternative access to Manchester platform is up stepped ramp from Helena Road. Access to the Liverpool bound platform has a long severe ramp and is via a locked gate. Station staff have a key. The access ramp is cobbled and has a safety barrier at the bottom in Helena Road. Alternative access is via an open step bridge with 27 steps to each platform, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Accepts Cash & Cards, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Which Preston station do trains from St Helens arrive at?
Trains from St Helens to Preston arrive at Preston. Preston is 1 km from Preston city centre.
PrestonFishergate, Preston PR1 8AP, United Kingdom+44 345 748 4950
City-centre transport
Getting to Preston from Preston city centre
Preston is 1 km from Preston city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus3, 2, 2A, 111, 111C · 13m · £8 · every ~36 min
Preston train station facilities and services
Preston has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Rise, The Olive Tree Brasserie, Turtle Bay
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Preston. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Preston. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Preston: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Preston: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Preston: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Holiday Inn Express Preston - South, Delta Hotels Preston, Macdonald Tickled Trout Hotel.
Most popular train connections from St Helens
More options for your journey from St Helens to Preston
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Preston and St Helens
Most popular train connections to Preston
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